First, let’s talk about the different moisturizing ingredients in skincare products.

Moisturizing agents can be split into three main categories: emollients, humectants, and occlusives. Emollients help to soften and smooth the skin, humectants attract water to the skin, and occlusives create a barrier to protect the skin and prevent moisture loss. 

Now that we have a basic understanding of moisturizing ingredients, let's talk about the difference between an oil and a moisturizer.

An oil refers to an oil-based product in skincare and generally consists of emollients and occlusives. Oils can be pure carrier oils, but most oils are a mix of multiple plant-based oils and essential oils. Some may also include other targeted skincare ingredients to address common skincare concerns.

The term ‘moisturizer’ means different things to different people and could include many different products (including oils, creams, lotions, balms, etc.). Most people are referring to a water-based product that is made up of at least two of the different kinds of moisturizing agents when they talk about moisturizers. Moisturizers may also contain skincare ingredients to target certain skin types or correct certain skincare concerns.

FAQs

Do I use an oil or moisturizer first?

It depends :) Honestly, ‘it depends’ is the best answer to all of these questions, but I’ll explain a little further. Generally, you should apply your skincare products in order of consistency from thinnest to thickest. This means an oil should be applied after most typical water-based moisturizers, but an oil should be applied before any occlusive moisturizers like Florence.

Do I need both an oil and moisturizer? Is an oil or moisturizer better for my skin?

Again, this depends on your skin type. I use an oil (Magic City Brightening Glow Elixir) as my main morning moisturizing product, and I layer an oil (Magic City Brightening Glow Elixir) and an occlusive moisturizer (Florence Blue Tansy Ceramide Balm) at night.

It’s important to remember that different skin types have different moisturizing needs, so it may take a few tries to find your perfect routine. It's also important to remember that your skin’s needs may change with various life events and may change with the seasons.

Please reach out if you have any questions about oils, moisturizers, or creating your skincare routine.